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Cardiac Tonics for Different Parts of the Body

By the very nature of such a specific action, it is not usually directly relevant to all the body systems. Many of the cardiac tonics will have other actions on the body, however, and it is this range that we will explore here.

Circulatory system: The primarily cardio-active remedies include Lily of the Valley, Foxglove, Broom, Squill, Figwort and Bugleweed, while the tonic remedies include Hawthorn, Linden, Garlic and Motherwort. Remedies that specifically benefit the vessels include Hawthorn, Linden, Horsechestnut, Garlic, Ginkgo and Yarrow.

Respiratory system: Any problem with the action of the heart might have an effect on lung congestion via a ‘backlog’ of blood waiting to be pumped. So the cardiac tonics may benefit the lungs by helping the heart rather than directly helping the chest itself. Garlic is renowned for its anti-microbial and generally beneficial action on the lungs, and Angelica is another gentle cardiac tonic that will help lung problems.

Digestive system: A number of the ‘heart’ herbs will support the system, including Rosemary, Linden, Motherwort, Yarrow, Angelica, Garlic and Balm.
Urinary system: Most of the herbs that have a direct impact in aiding the heart’s action will increase the amount of blood passing through the kidneys and so act as diuretics. Yarrow is an herb that is used in urinary problems, as is Broom. Any cardiac-active properties must be taken into account, especially with Broom.

Reproductive system: The cardiac tonics are not directly involved in the functioning of this system. Yarrow may play a dual role but only very slightly.
Muscles and Skeleton: Herbs that act as circulatory stimulants and in this way act on the whole system, play an important role in the musculo-skeletal system by increasing peripheral blood flow. This may reduce swelling and ease stiffness. Such herbs include Cayenne, Ginger, Prickly Ash, Mustard and Horseradish.

Nervous system: Motherwort, Linden, Balm and Rosemary all have a relaxing effect on the nervous system. As we shall see, many nervines help the circulatory system by relaxing the mind and body as a whole.
Skin: The only directly applicable remedy here is Figwort. However, where the skin problem is due to varicosity in veins, then cardiac tonics are very important, for example, Hawthorn, Horsechestnut, Yarrow and Linden.

What is a Cardiac Remedy? This is a general term for herbal remedies that have an action on the heart. Some of the remedies in this group are powerful Cardio-Active agents such as Foxglove, while others are gentler and safer Cardiac Tonics such as Hawthorn and Linden. These remedies are discussed in more depth in the section on the cardiovascular system.